Tax Benefits for Disabled Taxpayers? Yes!

Tax Benefits for Disabled Taxpayers

IRS Tax Tip 2011-24, February 03, 2011 Taxpayers with disabilities and parents of children with disabilities may qualify for a number of IRS tax credits and benefits. Listed below are seven tax credits and other benefits which are available if you or someone else listed on your federal tax return is disabled. Standard Deduction Taxpayers who are legally blind may be entitled to a higher standard deduction on their tax return. Gross Income Certain disability-related payments, Veterans Administration disability benefits, and Supplemental Security Income are excluded from gross income. Impairment-Related Work Expenses Employees who have a physical or mental disability limiting their employment may be able to claim business expenses in connection with their workplace. The expenses must be necessary for the taxpayer to work. Credit for the Elderly or Disabled This credit is generally available to certain taxpayers who are 65 and older as well as to certain disabled taxpayers who are younger than 65 and are retired on permanent and total disability. Medical Expenses If you itemize your deductions using Form 1040, Schedule A, you may be able to deduct medical expenses.See IRS Publication 502, Medical and Dental Expenses. Earned Income Tax Credit EITC is available to disabled taxpayers as well as to the parents of a child with a disability.If you retired on disability, taxable benefits you receive under your employer’s disability retirement plan are considered earned income until you reach minimum retirement age. The EITC is a tax credit that not only reduces a taxpayer’s tax liability but may also result in a refund. Many working individuals with a disability who have no qualifying children, but are older than 25 and younger than 65 do -- in fact -- qualify for EITC. Additionally, if the taxpayer’s child is disabled, the age limitation for the EITC is waived. The EITC has no effect on certain public benefits. Any refund you receive because of the EITC will not be considered income when determining whether you are eligible for benefit programs such as Supplemental Security Income and Medicaid. Child or Dependent Care Credit Taxpayers who pay someone to care for their dependent or spouse so they can work or look for work may be entitled to claim this credit.There is no age limit if the taxpayer’s spouse or dependent is unable to care for themselves. For more information on tax credits and benefits available to disabled taxpayers, see Publication 3966, Living and Working with Disabilities or Publication 907, Tax Highlights for Persons with Disabilities, available on the IRS website at http://www.irs.gov or by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

Toledo Public Schools Discriminate?

I received the following press release in my inbox today. Normally I try to fact check such things, but with my wife in the hospital, and the time-sensitive nature of this topic, I've decided to post it "as is." If anyone has the time to check this out, please let me know what you find. If true, it's very disturbing, given TPS's recent plea for more money on the upcoming ballot. Thanks for reading. - Lawrence

---------------------------
Contact:   

 Scott Horen
 glennshoren@yahoo.com
 419/699-0158

WHAT:    Toledo Public Schools to hold Public Hearing
WHEN:    Saturday, October 23, 2010 - at 9:30 a.m.
WHERE:    Heatherdowns Public Library - Glanzman Road, Toledo

In lieu of TPS's request from taxpayers to approve a 7.8 mil levy request, it is important that the public be made aware of how TPS spends taxpayer money.  TPS has recently paid its attorneys MORE THAN A HALF MILLION DOLLARS to fight a family seeking educational service for their disabled daughter.  

A PRESS RELEASE accompanies this NOTICE.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 

My name is Scott Horen and I am a life-long Toledoan.  As an alumni of Toledo Public Schools, something I am embarrassed to admit, I am deeply saddened and dismayed that the District treats children with disabilities in a neglectful manner. As a parent and consumer, I am shocked at the non-existent customer service the District extends to parents.  As a taxpayer, I am outraged the District spends our tax dollars paying attorneys hundreds of thousands of dollars to fight against the interests of children, like my daughter, instead of investing these dollars into their education. I thought educating children was the mission of TPS - I was wrong.  

In lieu of TPS's current attempts to get taxpayers to pass a 7.8 mil levy - I felt it was my duty to report how TPS spends your money.

My family filed an action against TPS after discovering that medical students were being provided access to study and examine our daughter without our knowledge.  TPS attorneys Randy Meyer, Lisa Pizza, Jim Silk, and Ted Rowan from the firm of Spengler Nathanson, began a series of retaliatory acts on behalf of TPS to discredit my family, to break us down, to force us to cease advocating on behalf of our child.  It won't work.  While my family has suffered tremendous personal and financial stress brought on by TPS's retaliation, its attorneys have billed the district hundreds of thousands of dollars - being paid by you, the taxpayer, to deny our daughter the right to an education.  

TPS has tossed our child out of the school, and permitted its attorneys to take part in filing at least FOUR legal claims against the Horens - we believe, to submit billable hours - lining their pockets off the back of our child.   We have documented more than half a million dollars of billings paid to Spengler Nathanson over only a two year period, while our requests for more recent invoices has been ignored.  Even the documents we were able to gather were deficient in providing an accurate accounting of the invoices TPS has paid to its attorneys, and it didn't include the hundreds of thousands of dollars of outstanding bills.

As I stand here today, TPS is gathering their attorneys, at a rate of $400 per hour, to take part in a scheduled hearing this morning, here at the Heatherdowns Branch library.  The basis of the claim - TPS argues they do not have to provide our daughter any educational services because we want to tape record meetings regarding her education.  According to Spengler Nathanson, TPS has spent more than four times the amount of money paying them, than TPS would have spent to provide our daughter an education up to the age of 22.  She is only 12.

At our request, the hearing will be open to the public.  You are invited to attend.  I will be available for additional comments and explanation afterwards.  While my wife and I will not stop advocating for our daughter, I would urge Toledo voters that if they find the levy request prudent, they should simply write a check straight to the firm of Spengler Nathanson.  If not, protect your wallets and get out and vote NO on ISSUE 5!

Thank you.

Heard about HEAP?

Winters can be hard here in the Northwest. Temps can get very cold, the snow can get very deep, and the "holiday" season often seems to stretch on endlessly. But why am I posting about this now, while we're in the grip of the much shorter (but often just as extreme) summer season? Because now is the time to apply for HEAP - the Home Energy Assistance Program.

What follows is a verbatim press release issued recently concerning the programs (like HEAP) which are administered by the Economic Opportunity Planning Association of Greater Toledo. Check it out, and see if you qualify for any of these programs.

For Immediate Release:

CONTACT:  Tomeka Rushing 

                         419-241-2213, or trushi@eopa.org

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helps eligible Ohio residents meet the rising cost of home heating.

With Summer temperatures rising, you might think that the charitable work of The Economic Opportunity Planning Association of Greater Toledo (E.O.P.A) HEAP Program is just about over. But the Home Energy Assistance Program is actively providing services to help people who are at risk with their utility needs. The services available to the community are listed below:

2010 Summer Crisis Energy an Air Conditioning program

July 1, 2010 through August 31, 2010

Poverty Income Guidelines are 0% to 200%

Customers can receive a grant award up to $175.00 towards their electric bill.

No disconnection is required.

Households can receive an Air Conditioner if documentation of a Health Condition can be provided. Proof of a Health Condition is not needed if the customer is sixty (60) years or age or older.

Toledo Edison/First Energy Ohio Fuel Fund

Poverty Income Guidelines are 0% to 200%

Customers can receive a grant award up to $300.00 towards their electric bill.

No disconnection is required.

The Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP)

Poverty Income Guidelines are 0% to 150%

Customer can enroll on a payment plan for regulated utility companies.

No disconnection notice required

TCO Columbia Gas Fuel Fund

Poverty Income Guidelines are 175% to 200%

Customer can receive up to $250.00 on Columbia Gas Bill Only

No disconnection notice required

Applications will be accepted at the following HEAP Sites:

EOPA HAMILTON BUILDING (Headquarters- Central City) (Open All Year Long)

505 HAMILTON ST

TOLEDO, OHIO 43604

(419) 255-7125

APPOINTMENT TIMES: 8:00 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.

Monday through Friday except all major holidays  

Please call 1-866-504-7392 to schedule an appointment.

At the time of your appointment you must have all the following:  

* 13 Weeks of current and documented income for all adults in the household.

* Picture Identification 

* Social Security numbers for all members of the household

* Both current regulated utility bills (gas, lights), in a household members name 

* Property Owners name, address, telephone number 

* Statement of Health Condition from a physician for Summer Crisis Program

The Economic Opportunity Planning Association of Greater Toledo, Inc. is the designated Community Action Agency for Lucas County. Founded in 1964, its mission is to develop and operate programs to advocate for low-income and moderate-income individuals and families to assist them in achieving self-sufficiency.  E.O.P.A. has always envisioned that economic emancipation is the greatest path to eradicate poverty. 

Head Start provides educational, health, and social services to low-income children and families.  To be eligible, families must receive public assistance or live below 150% of the federal poverty level, defined as an income of $33,075 or less for a family of four.

HEAP provides to income-qualified candidates, an annual grant to help with heating costs as well as an emergency program, which provides an emergency payment (once per heating season) for qualified low-income customers. 

The Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) is an extended payment arrangement that allows regulated gas and electric companies to accept payments based on a percentage of a customer's household income. Eligible customers have a household income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level.

New Beginnings

Today is January 1st, 2010. The beginning of a new year.

For many, the beginning of a new year marks a kind of milestone, or starting point. We see the first day of the new year as a chance to make changes for the better... to reinvent ourselves, if you will. We make resolutions (some actually kept) to live a healthier lifestyle, or to make a better life for those we love, or sometimes, to leave some kind of positive mark on the world.

As I look back over 55 years of "new beginnings" I am mostly pleased with my progress. I've made some spectacular blunders, to be sure... but I've also achieved some wonderful successes as well. This year, I plan to reinvent myself once again by returning to college to get my degree in Social Work. It will take a few years, yes, but I want it. I will succeed. That's my resolution.

I also plan to become more active in the area of advocacy for my fellow disabled this year. Whereas before I was content to simply write my blog and build an online community, I think this is the year I will ramp things up a bit. (Was that a play on words? {smile})


This is the year I will attend more local government meetings. This is the year I will meet with more of my fellow advocates and become a force for change in our community. We can do this, I am certain, because we have to. With the economy on everyone's mind, it will be easy for us to fall between the cracks. For our essential services to dwindle, or perhaps even vanish. We can not allow this to happen.

Late last year I attended an advocacy meeting hosted by The Ability Center of Greater Toledo. There was good food and music, of course, but there was also a presentation that opened my eyes a bit to the long road we've travelled so far, and the road that still lies ahead of us. At that meeting, I was greatly impressed with a speech given by one of the organizers of the event, Marianne Huff. In it she asks a very important question: Why Speak Up? I think I'll let her answer that question herself. Marianne? Take it away!

~~~~~~~

Why “Speak Up?”

Good evening, everyone, and welcome to the Grass Roots Advocacy Kick Off event!  We are excited to have the opportunity to talk to you today about the importance of advocacy that begins at the grass roots — which means all of us.  We are examples of the common man and woman who are the building blocks of this society and we are the foundation upon which this Nation is built.  We call it grass roots because our power comes from the raising of our collective voices.  Nothing that has been built in this country was done by a single individual; all that has been accomplished and all that will ever be accomplished is rooted in the knowledge that all of us are inter-connected and that those things that matter, are accomplished collectively.

I remember seeing a film called “Marie: A True Story” about a woman named Marie Raggianti who was the first woman appointed to head the Parole Board for the state of Tennessee. In that film, which was about tremendous corruption in the state’s government and, Mrs. Raggianti, who was one of those who uncovered the corruption and spoke out -- I heard a quote from one of the characters in that  film -- that I will never forget which, I have since discovered, is a paraphrased statement from a well-known English statesman who was influential during the 1700’s named Edmund Burke; the quote went something like this:  “Evil flourishes when good men do nothing.” In all reality, it mattered much less to me “who” made this statement, but I have never forgotten these words as they have settled into my thinking and as they thumped loudly against my beliefs and against my values.

So I ask you today: Why speak up?  To risk the collective slings and arrows of those who rabidly seek to maintain that which is the status quo — it means — talking back to those who, believing in the infallibility of their own “power” — who believe that they are “legends”  — if even in their own minds — have forgotten that their ladder of authority is not sturdy — that they can be toppled by standing on an unstable foundation that is built upon the fragility of the human ego and not upon the bedrock of our common humanity.   

So why speak up?   Because evil and poor judgment based upon service to self DO flourish in the land.  Self-seeking and self-importance can infect and invade the nooks and crannies of the mortar of the consciousness of All when gone — unchallenged — Naysayers can often be soothsayers who are keen observers of the truth — and who risk sharing “what they see” — by asking questions such as “Why?” and “Why not?” 

So, why speak up?  When it is easier to look toward our own lives, to be concerned with our own positions — as lowly or as lofty as we may deem them to be — and set our gaze upon our stuff — and ignore the suffering of others — ignore the bad public policy decisions that will eventually effect us — ignore the injustice — the ugliness — until it happens to us.  Then we pay attention. Then we take notice.  By then we have become those whose plight we have ignored.  Then we are no longer ignorant — we are informed by our own experience. 

So why speak up?  Thomas Jefferson, John Quincy Adams. Jean D’Arc; Ed Roberts; Judy Heumann; Justin Dart; Abraham Lincoln; Gandhi; Mitch Snyder.  Martin Luther King, Jr.  Queen Elizabeth the first.   

All of these ordinary folks and citizens, who did extraordinary things — who spoke up and who observed the wrong and attempted to make it right — by speaking up and by acknowledging that, sometimes, the Emperor has no clothes.  These folks are an example of many others throughout history who spoke out and declared “It is what it is”, without apology and without allowing the fear that they must have felt when doing the right thing to interfere with their actions.

They didn’t ignore it.

They didn’t hope IT would go away.

They didn’t hope that someone else would take care of it for them.

They stood up to it.

They took it on.

They stood alone, often times, and they said “No more”.

They spoke up in the immortal words of Popeye and declared:

“It is alls I can stands ‘cuz I can’t stands no more.”

America would not be here today without the collective efforts of a grass roots group of bedraggled farmers, ministers, disillusioned statesmen, and business owners.  America would not be here today if this group had shrugged their collective shoulders and decided, “It’s okay if they tax us to death.”  “It’s okay if we have no voice in the tyranny to which our government has been inflicting upon us.”  “That is okay if they tell us how to worship our Creator.”  “That’s okay if they control us thereafter with martial law and taxes and the threat of treason and eventual death.”

Benjamin Franklin.  Paul Revere.  John Hancock.  George Washington. Alexander Hamilton.  Samuel Adams. And others, many others, including a group of farmers, mill wrights, stone masons, blacksmiths -- all spoke up together.  And acted — with deliberation — with intention — with deliberate intention — to affect change — in spite of the knowledge that Death would be nigh to them all — they spoke up anyway.   

“It’s better to light a candle then to curse the darkness.” Edna St. Vincent Millay.

So again, I ask you, “Why Speak up?”  When your voice may be the only voice of reason— the only voice of clarity — the only voice of dissent amid millions of those who may be assenting to an insane, immoral proposition.  

Why speak up?  Your words may be the only offering of a solution in a whirlwind of indecision and derision and turmoil.  Your way may be the only fire escape from a torrent of irrational acts and brutality.  Your wisdom may be the only enlightened vision that is left unclouded by the passionate, yet misdirected will of one who has corrupted the minds of many.  

So why speak up?  

Bang the drum.

Sound the alarm.

Shout it.

Scream it.

Quietly --  as the life you save may be your own.

~~~~~

Thank you, Marianne, for those powerful words!

And so, this year, I join my voice to the hundreds and thousands already out there, speaking out. I forget sometimes that the "A" in Advocacy stands for "Action" -- and today, at the beginning of a new year, I resolve, strongly, to take more action this year, and speak out for those who may not (as of yet) have found their own voice. Will you join me... no strike that... will you join US? Thank you, as always, for your support.

---

Marianne Huff is the Advocacy Event Coordinator for The Ability Center of Greater Toledo, and may be reached by contacting them directly. A link is provided to the left.

Are You Prepared?

Disaster can strike at any time.

Nobody likes to think about a disaster, or sudden emergency. It's scary, and it makes us very uncomfortable. We think that it will never happen to us, and thankfully, most times we are right. Still, the chance always exists that at some point we will experience a fire, a severe storm, or an extended power outage. For an able-bodied person, this can be an inconvenience. For a disabled person, this can pose a serious risk to our health and safety, or perhaps even our lives.

This week's post is not meant to frighten you. What follows are a few possible scenarios, and how you can prepare for them. Obviously I can't foresee every possible circumstance, so keep that in mind as you read, and make adjustments as necessary. Ready? Let's get prepared!

Fire. Perhaps one of the more common types of emergency, it's the one we certainly dread the most.

We're sleeping soundly in our warm comfy bed when suddenly an annoying beeping sound rouses us from our slumber. As wakefulness hits, we realize it's the smoke detector! (You do have working smoke detectors in your home, right? You should have at least one on each floor of your home, and replace the batteries with fresh ones at least once a year.)

You reach the bedroom door... but wait. If it's closed, always press your hand against the wood or door knob first. If it's hot, don't open it - fire is likely on the other side. If the door it still cool to the touch, or already open, proceed with caution toward the nearest exit.

A word on exits: Always try to have at least two viable exits from the house, and if possible, each bedroom. While this may be impossible in every circumstance, it's a good thing to plan for anyway. If fire is blocking the front doorway, you need to get out the back. If that's not possible, you should be prepared to break out a window. While you may not be able to climb out through a window by yourself, the presence of a broken window can alert fire or rescue personnel that you are trapped in the house. A small hammer kept near the window can be a real life saver.

While fire is scary, and hot, the most common deaths in a fire are caused by smoke inhalation. If the house is already in flames, it is likely that it will also be filled with heavy black smoke, which can render you unconscious in moments. Two things can help here. One is to soak a towel in water, and drape it over your head. This can keep much of the smoke out while you head for the nearest exit. The other is keeping as close to the ground as possible. Smoke is hot, and collects near the ceiling, leaving a small gap of cooler air near to the floor. If you can, crawl to the exit. This will take longer, but will also buy you extra time to make your escape.

Finally, if you have time to call 9-1-1 before you must exit (but don't waste time making that call if it delays you too much) be sure to mention that you are handicapped, and may have trouble getting to safety. This will alert first responders to look for you immediately upon their arrival.

Storms & Power Failures. These two often go hand-in-hand. A severe thunderstorm, or a tornado, moves through the area. Each has its own risks, but in both cases it's possible that downed power lines could leave you isolated in your now darkened home... perhaps for days. Do you have a plan for surviving without power for an extended period?

The consequences are many. No electricity means no way to charge your electric wheelchair. It may also mean no way to charge a cell phone, and no way to prepare a meal if you use a microwave. In winter, it would mean no heat, and in summer, no air conditioning. It might even represent a threat to your life if you use a mechanical device to aid your breathing, for example. In this final circumstance, it is imperative that you call 9-1-1 at once to alert them to your situation. Also, before disaster strikes you should also notify your local utility providers so that they can keep your name and address on their priority reconnection list.

So what about tornados? Obviously if you're in your home you should stay there. A special exception is a mobile home, but I don't need to educate you about that one. Okay, so where do you go if the alert sirens are blaring? The first choice should always be your basement, but often this is not an option for persons in a wheelchair. In that case, the main floor will have to do. Pick a room with as few windows as possible, or a hallway near the center of the house. Then just wait it out. A tornado moves very quickly, and most pass through a town in a matter of only 10-20 minutes. Hopefully this will never happen to you, but knowing where to go and what to do ahead of time can mean the difference between a good outcome and a bad one. Plan ahead.

I could go on quite a bit on this subject, but I think I've made my point. Everyone should have a disaster plan, of course, but it's especially important for the disabled. I hope you will think about this over the course of the next few days, and then act. It could save your life, or the lives of those you love.

Until next time, be safe.


Note: We have a wonderful e-book (in universal PDF format) on disaster preparedness for the disabled in our Buckeye Barrier Busters Library, free for you to download and consult. Please click on this link to go directly to the page, or just visit BuckeyeBarrierBusters.org, and click on the Library Link. Thanks to FEMA and the American Red Cross for making this publication available to our community.

Employment Awareness Month

For Immediate Release                                                 September 30, 2009

NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH, 2009
- - - - - - -
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

Fair access to employment is a fundamental right of every American, including the 54 million people in this country living with disabilities. A job can provide financial stability, help maximize our potential, and allow us to achieve our dreams. As Americans, we possess a range of vocational opportunities to make the most of our talents and succeed in a chosen career; those with disabilities are entitled to the same opportunities. During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we recommit ourselves to implementing effective policies and practices that increase employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

In the past half-century, we have made great strides toward providing equal employment opportunities in America, but much work remains to be done. As part of that continuing effort, we must seek to provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Only then can Americans with disabilities achieve full participation in the workforce and reach the height of their ambition.

My Administration is committed to promoting positive change for every American, including those with disabilities. The Federal Government and its contractors can lead the way by implementing effective employment policies and practices that increase opportunities and help workers achieve their full potential. Across this country, millions of people with disabilities are working or want to work. We must ensure they have access to the support and services they need to succeed.

Recognizing the need for equal employment opportunities, we must also strengthen and expand the educational opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act substantially increased funding for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and provided more than $500 million for vocational rehabilitation services, including job training, education, and placement. If we are to build a world free from unnecessary barriers, stereotypes, and discrimination, we must ensure that every American receives an education that prepares him or her for future success.

Each day, Americans with disabilities play a critical role in forging and shaping the identity of our Nation. Their contributions touch us all through personal experience or through that of a family member, neighbor, friend, or colleague. We grow stronger as a Nation when Americans feel the dignity conferred by having the ability to support themselves and their families through productive work. This month, we rededicate ourselves to fostering an inclusive work culture that welcomes the skills and talents of all qualified employees.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 2009, as National Disability Employment Awareness Month. I call on all Americans to celebrate the contributions of individuals with disabilities to our workplaces and communities, and to promote the employment of individuals with disabilities to create a better, more inclusive America, one in which every person is rightly recognized for his or her abilities and accomplishments.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

My commentary:

Recognition is not only a warm and comforting thing, it can be a force for positive and powerful change as well. Those of us with disabilities just want a chance to make a contribution to society and to help support our families and loved ones. Many of us have a lot to offer in the workplace, if we're but given a chance. Thank you, Mr. President, for recognizing us.

-- Lawrence Moore, proud (and yes, disabled) American

Why So Shortsighted?

When insurance companies just get it plain wrong.

If you've been disabled for long (or have cared for someone with a disability) you no doubt have discovered by now that insurance companies are rarely all that pleasant to deal with... or even when pleasant, they often are not as helpful as they should be. Case in point: Medical or adaptive equipment.

I get around, and I hear stories. One woman needed new batteries for her wheelchair, for instance. Her insurance wouldn't pay for batteries (a consumer expense, said they) but they would pay for a new wheelchair if she qualified. Hello?

In my own case, new rubber tips were not allowed (at a cost of under $10) for my crutches, but new crutches were available, at a cost of $100. Hello?

And finally, a case I heard about just this week, about a woman with a speech impediment who found a less expensive option than the text-to-speech converting computer her insurance had purchased for her. She'd learned that a common off-the-shelf iPhone ($300) and a certain app ($1) combo worked better for her than the computer her insurance had approved -- which totaled an astounding $8000. Her request for the iPhone was denied.

Hello???

Insurance agencies, and especially MediCare, are strangling in rules and red tape. State MediCaid is sometimes even worse. Applying for a durable good or medical service is a process that could try the patience of Job. All too often, people are denied over and over because the goods or services in question fail to meet one criteria or other, forcing persons in dire need to wait, or worse, to be denied altogether.

Technology is advancing way ahead of the bureaucracy when it comes to insurance coverage, and this is a shame, given that newer technology often comes at a much lower cost. Take the iPhone as one example. A simple and yet powerful device that can be used to make calls, of course, but also comes with the capability to run literally hundreds of applications (like tiny computer programs) to perform a plethora of useful functions, like speech translation, navigation, information searches, and so on. Useful to the disabled? You bet! covered by insurance? Yeah, nice try.

So do I have a solution to this problem? I wish I did. For right now, all we can do is seek out these modern answers to our problems, and then begin the arduous task of lobbying our insurance companies, and government, to make them available to us through insurance. The irony is, the insurance companies will thank us (sort of) for saving them a bundle.

Or will they? Nah. What was I thinking? :)

Say What?

Sometimes, people just don't think...

I look at the photo above, and I have to laugh... and I ask myself, what exactly was the person thinking when they posted that sign? Did they see the irony, or did they just complete their assigned task, and move on?

It could be a photoshop fake, of course, except that I have seen many such examples of "selective blind spots" to just pass it off without a closer look. And yes, I do realize that able-bodied persons often accompany friends who are in wheelchairs to stadium events, such as ball games. Perhaps the sign was meant for them, and I'm just reading my own bias into it?

Perhaps.

Then again, perhaps not. I have, in the past, called ahead to find out if a certain store or restaurant might pose some kind of barrier to my use of it, and was told in no uncertain terms that the building was "fully handicapped accessible." Sometimes the voice on the other end of the phone was right... but seemingly more often than not, they were wrong. Either there was a small (to them) step blocking the only entrance, or the racks and displays were too close together, or the sole public restroom just happened to be upstairs. Neither of us ended that day happily. Me, from having wasted a trip for nothing, and they from missing out on a potential sale.

Now, in all fairness I realize that no single person can be expected to know enough about every type of disability out there to answer the question of access with 100% accuracy. My diatribe today is not about that. Rather, I'm speaking today of what I earlier described as "selective blind spots" -- or put another way, just not seeing something as a barrier because it's never been a barrier to you.

Allow me to digress just for a moment and share an example of "blind spots" not related to disability. Once many years ago our area was hit by a severe winter storm. It passed rather quickly, dumping over a foot of snow, and bringing down the entire power grid to over half of the city. The damage was pretty bad; we had no power (and thus no heat) for almost a week.

One by one friends and family called in to check up on us. Yes we were fine, thank goodness, but of course we had no lights or heat. "I can loan you an electric blanket" one helpful relative offered. Another offered an electric space heater. Except for nearly freezing to death, it was pretty funny at the time.

The point is, none of these people were stupid, by any means. All were anxious to help. They just couldn't help falling into the blind spot that often develops when we become used (dependent) on things being a certain way. Often, it takes something like a snow storm (metaphorically speaking) to shake them out of this world view so they can see reality in a whole new way.

This is the purpose of educating people about disability issues. This is why I write this blog. If you come upon someone with a blind spot that impacts your disability, don't criticize them. Instead, enlighten them. Do it with humor, and gentleness. Remember too, that what may seem to painfully obvious to us may not be so obvious to them.

Meanwhile, keep a spare electric blanket handy, just in case. :)

A Ramp to Freedom!

When steps just aren't good enough.

Some people believe that the world was created in seven days. To be honest, I've always believed that claim to be more metaphorical than literal, but a recent experience has convinced me that miraculous things can indeed happen in such a short period of time. In my case, a new world was not created, but rather was opened up to me, and it only took three days instead of seven. Let me tell you all about it, in pictures as well as words.

Day 1 - 9:00 am: Here you can see me standing at the top of our old steps which lead up into the sun room at the rear entrance to our house. Clearly they have seen better days. In fact, an occupational therapist recently described them as "hazardous." She was not exaggerating. The steps were cracked, the rails were shaky, and even termites seemed to shy away from them. Clearly, they had to go before they killed someone.

That someone would be me.

Day 1 - 5:00 pm: By the end of the first day, the old steps had been dragged away (and I'm told they now rest upon a nice pile of old lumber scraps somewhere, waiting to be burned - this thought makes me strangely happy) and the framework of the ramp was already in place. As you can see, new steps now lead up to a sturdy platform where the old steps once stood. Construction was delayed a bit while suitable lumber was located and brought to the site. Only the best will do when Accessible Renovations does a job, and it took more than one stop before enough lumber could be found. Thanks guys. I appreciate the extra effort.

The new steps are wider, and lower in height. If need be, I can use these steps while the rest of the ramp is under construction. Elapsed time, about 6 hours including lunch and rest breaks. I am more than a little impressed. Oh, did I mention this? The "work crew" is comprised of exactly one man. Let me introduce you...

The Crew: Here he is folks. His name is Rick and he works for Accessible Renovations, the contractor placed in charge of this job by The Ability Center of Toledo, and of course approved by me before construction began. Rick doesn't exactly strike you as a superman, until you've seen him hoist a stack of twelve-foot 4x4's onto his shoulder and carry them from the truck and around the house to the work site all by himself. It was like watching a magician perform a magic trick... you wanted to ask him how he did it, but on the other hand, you just didn't want to spoil the sense of wonder. It's all I could do to keep myself from pulling up a chair to watch.

Day 2 - noon. The framework is really coming together now. The railings are up, as is the flooring of the ramp from the doorway to the first platform, where I'm standing. Not sure what I was pointing at when the first photo was taken, but I'm sure it must have been interesting. LOL!

Not much left to do now, it seems, except finish the flooring and rails on the second ramp segment which will "switch back" from here toward the house... or more precisely, the concrete patio area, and the side entrance to the garage. The slope is so gentle (30 degree angle if I remember correctly) that walking up and down takes almost no effort at all. My ramp is nearly finished now, I'm told. I find myself growing excited.

Day 3 - 4:00 pm. Today the last flooring section was finished, and the entire ramp structure was spot checked, sanded, and then checked again. I'm no carpenter, but I'm willing to bet that this ramp may well outlive the house. The site was then cleaned up perfectly, and I was invited to inspect the finished project. I walked the full length of the ramp for the first time, and smiled. I can't wait to run this baby in the wheelchair (still on order as I write this) and I am certain it will be a perfect fit.

Prologue: I felt an odd sense of freedom as I walked this ramp for the first time. Before now, I'd considered the old steps a nuisance. But if I'm to be honest, they were much more than that. Of late, I've been (subconsciously perhaps) avoiding having to leave the house. As I age, and my disability progresses, climbing steps is no longer such an "easy" task. Some days, when I'd come home especially tired, I required the help of my sweet wife (hi Lydia!) to make it up the last step. Clearly, I was losing my freedom. Now I have regained a measure of that, thanks to Rick, and Matt Lee of Accessible Renovations, and Mary Kowalik of The Ability Center of Toledo, and of course others known (and unknown) to me. Thank you all, for returning to me my freedom. If I can ever return the favor, you know where I live. Feel free to use the ramp. :)

Autism + Internet = ?

The ZAC Browser... a solution to a very real problem.

As my trip to the "ADA Day at the Zoo" event last week reminded me, there's still a whole lot I don't know about the hardware and software that already exists to help those of us who live with a disability. A case in point is Autism, and some software I discovered only last week that could make cruising the internet a lot easier (and safer) for anyone with that disorder.

The ZAC (Zone for Autistic Children) Browser offers a simplified interface that makes accessing the web much easier and less confusing for most users. What follows is the story of the ZAC Browser in the creators own words. Please see their website for additional details, and important compatibility information.

The origins of Zac Browser

ZAC Browser was originally designed in response to a family problem. In 2002, we were blessed with the arrival of our grandson, Zackary. From very early on, Zackary demonstrated signs of development disorders and in 2005, he was diagnosed with severe autism. For the love of our grandson, it was a pleasure to call together our talents to create an Internet browser specifically dedicated to his needs.

The beginnings of Zac Browser

Zackary demonstrated a lot of frustration with computers at his school. We were able to determine several reasons whenever he used a conventional browser. First we recognized that there were just too many useless functions for Zackary. The right hand mouse button would be a source of frustration. The functions used to reduce or close the browser would have the window disappear and give access to the task bar and the Windows menu functions which all lead to accessing diverse software on the computer along with the uninstall program function.

The creation of Zac Browser

Following the disappointing results obtained with the use of a conventional browser, we designed a software package specifically adapted for him. We designed a "full screen" program that cannot access the task bar, the Start menu and also cancels the right hand function of the mouse. The buttons are limited to essential functions and the browser prevents the child from accessing inappropriate sites. Children suffering from autism are known for being able to adapt easily to PECS (pictograms) so we designed an icon based navigation system like the PECS system.

Zackary’s first experience with the Zac Browser

From the moment that Zackary tried out the Zac Browser we noticed that he had no more frustrations when using the computer. He was no longer able to click on anything that would bring up unpleasant surprises. So we gave complete control to Zackary and so he was able to play, be entertained and took best advantage of what technology has to offer.

Once we noticed the benefits for Zackary it became obvious that this immense virtual playground should be shared with the whole world.

We know that parents who take care of children with autism must dish out a lot of money to ensure the well-being and the proper development of their child. We wish to contribute in our own way and offer you Zac Browser absolutely free.

The official launch was at the end of April 2008 and it was an instant success thanks to the wide media coverage that we were lucky to benefit from.

The future of Zac Browser

We can now count on over a million users in different languages: English, Spanish and French. We don’t expect to stop there. We are following through with our commitment and continue refining Zac Browser so as to always be on the cutting edge of technological advances. Without you having to continually upgrade, Zac Browser automatically adds new sites and videos as they become available. We are also committed to expanding Zac Browser with other languages. If you wish to get involved and contribute to the expansion of Zac Browser, please consult our "Associate" section.

What’s new in Version 1.5

• A drawing board
• New sites
• New videos
• Compatibility with the latest Flash sites
• Increased speed in loading videos
• Color changes of the Browser background
• Changes to the "Smiley" in another category
• Added application for "Zac Crash Recovery"
• Added shortcut to "The Autism News.com"
• Added shortcut to our new forum

Ordinarily I'd close with a short summation of this products features, and my own observations and evaluations. However, this time that has proved problematic at best. While I could download and run the browser, I lack the expertise or experience to give this product the proper review it deserves. Therefore, I leave that up to you. If you've tried the ZAC Browser, or are willing to try it, I'd welcome any comments, positive or negative, that you'd care to post.

Until next time, thank you for your readership, and support.

ADA Zoo Day (pt. 2)

All I can say is... WOW!

As I expected, the 9th annual "ADA Day at the Zoo" event was a rousing success. With almost perfect weather, and nearly all of the 100 expected vendors attending, there was plenty to see and do... and to learn.

My wife and I arrived shortly after opening at 10 am -- and I'm glad we arrived when we did. The main parking lot was already almost full (we got lucky and found one of the few remaining "permit only" spaces near the main gate) and I watched in awe as several buses loaded with kids arrived only seconds behind us. It was going to be a busy and crowded day at the zoo.

I was pleased to note the large number of scooters and wheelchairs gathered nearby as we all made our way toward the admissions gate. The success of an event such as this depends greatly on drawing a large crowd, and so far, it was looking good. Wearing my official "Buckeye Barrier Busters tee-shirt" and with business cards firmly in hand (well okay, in my wife's purse) we crossed the bridge and headed toward the first cluster of vendors.

The purpose of this event for me was to introduce myself to the other attendees and hopefully introduce as many people as possible to my now officially launched organization, BuckeyeBarrierBusters.org and of course, this Disability Awareness Blog. To my joy, I found most of the vendors to be very positive and complementary about my efforts and message. I know I made a few new friends, and I hope to keep in touch with them now that they know where to find me.

To mention all of them in today's posting would be almost impossible, but I did collect at least ten pounds worth of handouts and business cards. Expect to see the results of that collection in future blogs. But, before parting for this week, I do want to make mention of a few people I found of special interest.

One young woman, Kimberlie Sherman of Breaking Barriers, was especially memorable. I wish I had half her energy. As a professional Disability Consultant, she specializes in helping folks to find programs and resources specific to their disability -- and not just locally, but nationally. If you haven't had much luck with winding your way through the system, give her a try. I'm sure she'll do her very best to help you out.

Another very nice lady I met that day was Kay Bennett of The Arc of Lucas County. They offer support, education and advocacy for people with developmental disabilities, and have been doing so for over fifty years. Kudos, Kay -- you and your fine group are doing an excellent job!

I also had the pleasure of meeting Steven Kiessling, the executive director of Camp Courageous. Since 1963, this fine organization has been providing "the outdoor experience" to our area's special needs children. Steven was nice enough to extend a personal invitation for me to come out and see their camp for myself, and I just might do that. I'll even bring the marshmallows, Steve! :)

As I said, these were only three of the many friendly and committed people I met last monday, and I'll certainly introduce you to a few more in the coming weeks. In closing, I had a great time at the ADA Zoo Day this year, and I'm already making plans to attend next year. I hope you're doing the same.